Beverly Hills Seeks Applicants for Two Planning Commission Seats

Beverly Hills residents interested in helping shape local development have until Friday, October 23, at 5 p.m. to apply for two advertised Planning Commission openings, with terms beginning January 1 and July 1, 2027.

The recruitment covers one current vacancy and a future vacancy, according to the city's announcement. Appointments are made by the City Council.

The five-member commission reviews development applications for consistency with the city's General Plan, the policy document that guides land use and development. It also recommends broader development policies to the council.

Its responsibilities extend beyond recommendations. The city identifies the commission as the final authority, unless an appeal goes to the City Council, for several types of discretionary development applications, including conditional use permits, development plan review permits and zoning variances. It also advises the council on land subdivisions, including condominium proposals.

For residents and property owners, those duties make the commission an important point of public review for proposed changes to the built environment.

Commissioners begin with a two-year term and may receive one four-year reappointment, for a maximum of six years of service. The positions are unpaid.

The city's application guidance requires applicants to have lived in Beverly Hills for at least two years before applying. Commissioners must file an annual statement of economic interests, and selected applicants must complete a background check.

The city recommends that prospective applicants attend several Planning Commission meetings to understand the issues under review and how the panel conducts its work. It also recommends participation in Team Beverly Hills, its residential education program about city operations.

Applications and recruitment information are available at beverlyhills.org/applyforacommission. Residents may also call the City Clerk's Office at (310) 285-2400 to request an application by mail or email. The deadline is October 23 at 5 p.m.